ISLAM IN THE MALAY HISTORY AND CULTURE: ITS IMPACTS ON THE MALAY CULTURE, LANGUAGE & LITERATURE

Abstract

The origin of Malay language, culture and literature often being debated due to different reasons and interests. Some argued there are similarities between the Malay’s practices, words and literature influences to the Hindus as well as Buddhists while some strongly refuted, saying that all aspect are solely influenced by Islamic traits. This research was carried out to prove that Islamization serves as the key factor in the Malay society’s transformation particularly in terms of language, literature and culture. It is in accordance with a Western Philosopher’s ideology, "a revolution from within" which stated that the Malay’s strength was not attributed to its race, culture and literature, but it is because of Islam. The research methodology used encompasses the literature review and analysis of information obtained from previous studies. The data findings revealed that there were indeed Hinduism and Buddhism in the Malay Peninsula particularly and the Malay Archipelago however the arrival of Islam has resulted in numerous changes in the traditional Malay society. The religion introduced a new system of law and values, thus resulting in a significant transformation in the Malay worldview. Perhaps the most noticeable change it caused was the emergence and development of the Malay language and literature. Islam's arrival has also led to other cultural shifts in the Malay Archipelago from various aspects, for instance the learning development that was mostly driven by the introduction of the religion's holy scripture known as Quran which was written in the Arabic language. Following Islamization, the Malay society learned recitation of the Quran to enable them to perform prayers and other religious rituals. Conversion to Islam involving all Malays in the Malay peninsula occurred without disrupting the harmony among the societies. In the political aspect, Islamization has brought about a new system of law and government.